The Texans have been handing out some pretty big contracts the past couple of years, and all these players deserve it. They have kept some of their most essential players and you might be surprised as to which three players currently have the largest contracts on Houston's roster.
As we look ahead to the 2024 season, it's time to shine some spotlight on the big earners in Houston. These players aren't just bringing skills to the field but they're cashing in serious paychecks and carrying the weight of expectations for the team's success.
These guys aren't just players, they're the ones the Texans are counting on to make it happen this season. So, buckle up as we dive into who they are and what they bring to the table in 2024.
3. Tytus Howard (Right Tackle)
In the 2019 NFL draft, with the 23rd pick in the first round, the Houston Texans selected Tytus Howard from Alabama State University. At 6-5, 322 lbs he's played over 3,500 snaps on the line and has been one of the most dominant players since arriving in Houston.
In 2023 the Texans gave Howard a 3-year $56 million contract, with $36 million guaranteed. Also in the 2023 season, he only played a total of 7 games, this was due to a broken finger towards the start of the season. For the past two seasons, he hasn't gotten a single holding penalty, but in his first two years, he had 4 total holding calls. In his career he has gotten 11 false starts, none coming from 2023.
When healthy Howard is one of the best right tackles in the league. In 2022, he finished with a 70. 2 pass-blocking grade by Pro Football Focus and a career-best 64.5 run-blocking grade. Tytus will be one of the reasons C.J. Stroud will continue to succeed, he can effectively stop defensive linemen from getting to the backfield.
2. Nico Collins (Wide Receiver)
Nico Collins was one of C.J. Stroud's favorite targets last season. Collins was targeted even more after Tank Dell got injured mid-way through the campaign. In 2023 he accumulated 80 receptions and 1,297 yards for 8 touchdowns. Truly, we shouldn't be surprised he was such an asset for Stroud, as he tore it up in the pre-draft combine. Before he was drafted Collins ran a 4.43 40-yard dash time, a wildly good time for a man of his size. At 6'4, and 215 lbs, he was a wrecking ball that Stroud made sure to target as often as possible.
After the addition of Stefon Diggs to the rosters, many speculated that Nico Collins may be moved to wide receiver 2 and could end up getting fewer targets. Thus having a down year. It seems, however, that most likely won't be the case, as the Texans are looking more into having Diggs at the WR2 spot. Due to the addition of Diggsg, I believe Collins might have even better stats this year.
A couple of months ago in 2024, Houston handed Collins a three-year, $72.75 million extension that includes $52 million guaranteed. This makes a lot of sense, he is young and has a lot of talent. If his production remains consistent and the club can afford to keep paying him well enough, then he could start to see his name rise up as one of the best receivers in Texans history. However, it's still way too early for that.
1. Laremy Tunsil (Left Tackle)
Laremy Tunsil, the powerhouse left tackle for the Houston Texans, is not just a guy protecting the quarterback, he’s a cornerstone on their path to victory. His wallet certainly reflects that. Tunsil signed a mega three-year, $75 million deal with Houston, with a cool $60 million of that being guaranteed.
Why such a large contract? Well, Tunsil isn’t your run-of-the-mill lineman. He’s among the best in the business, known for shutting down opposing defensive nightmares. All while giving his QB, C.J. Stroud the peace of mind to work his magic. Tunsil’s technique is smooth and his strength is like trying to move a brick wall.
For the Texans, locking down Tunsil wasn’t just about keeping a guy happy, it was about securing a key to the Super Bowl door. If Houston wants to go all the way, Tunsil’s protection and power will be crucial. You don’t drop that kind of cash on just anyone; you do it for someone who’s proven they’re worth every penny.
As the Houston Texans aim for the top spot in the NFL, players like Laremy Tunsil, Nico Collins, and Tytus Howard are the ones making it happen. Tunsil’s huge contract shows how important he is at keeping the quarterback safe and making sure the offense runs smoothly. Nico Collins brings tons of excitement as a wide receiver, and Tytus Howard is a beast at right tackle, holding it down for the Texans.
With these guys on board and their big contracts, Houston’s serious about winning. Tunsil, Collins, and Howard are key to the team’s plan for a championship. As the season kicks off, their play will decide how far the Texans can go and if they’ll make a real mark in football.
